Silverfish

What do silverfish look like?

Silverfish have teardrop-shaped bodies and 3 distinctive bristle-like appendages protruding from the hind-end of their bodies. They have antennae that are the same length as their bodies. Their brown bodies are covered in silvery-metallic scales, giving them a shiny, shimmery appearance. Silverfish are wingless, but they are able to move rapidly using a wriggling, fish-like motion. Young silverfish or nymphs look similar to adults, but are smaller in size.

Are silverfish dangerous?

Silverfish pose no real danger to people, but they have the potential to be destructive to our personal property and food sources. Silverfish can cause damage to items inside homes like wallpaper and paper goods, and they may cause staining on clothing. They also contaminate pantry items, such as flour, sugar, oats, and cereals.

Where do silverfish nest?

Inside homes, silverfish create nests in damp areas where temperatures are cooler, and they are usually found residing in basements. However, they can also be found nesting in cabinets and underneath sinks in attics, kitchens, crawl spaces, laundry rooms, and bathrooms. Silverfish are nocturnal, and remain in their nesting spots during the day, only emerging at night to feed. Outside, silverfish are found nesting underneath mulch, landscaping ties, fallen trees, and leaf litter.

Why do I have a silverfish problem?

Silverfish often become problematic inside homes if the weather outside becomes too hot and dry. They make their way inside homes through cracks in basement and exterior walls. Silverfish can also be accidentally introduced into homes inside boxes, packages, used furniture, or rugs that are brought inside after being outside.

How do I get rid of silverfish?

When dealing with a silverfish infestation, the best thing to do is contact your local pest control company as soon as possible. At Pro Active Pest Control, our experts will come to your aid, perform a thorough inspection, and create a pest control program to help eliminate silverfish and prevent future invasions. We use the most modern pest control methods and products possible to control silverfish and other common pests found living in our area.

Our pest control services are covered by our 100% service guarantee for homes and businesses in Roseville, El Dorado Hills, Rancho Cordova, Lincoln, Rocklin, or Sacramento. To learn more about implementing our services, contact us at Pro Active!

How can I prevent future problems with silverfish?

Preventing problems with silverfish can be a daunting task. There are some steps you can take to help deter them and prevent them from finding their way inside.

• Seal any gaps found in your home’s foundation, exterior walls, and around utilities, windows, and doors entering into your home.
• Install door sweeps on all exterior doors.
• Place a stone or rock barrier between any mulch and your home’s foundation.
• Eliminate easy access to water sources by repairing any leaky pipes and drains.
• Ensure that your gutters are functioning properly.
• Reduce humidity levels in basement areas by utilizing de-humidifiers.
• Keep pantry items in air-tight containers.